When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to work carefully. The first step is to put on a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to stop glass shards from cutting you during your work.

Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a simple solution for a window that has cracked. This will stop insects, snow and rain from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked window glass not only makes your home less attractive, but it can also allow drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter whether the cracks are caused by an impact like soccer or baseball, or stress, like an abrupt temperature change, but it is crucial to get them repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage and keep your windows working effectively.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it is not broken. This is a quick, low-cost solution to shield your window from dust, water bugs and other sand. It also keeps out the weather.

If the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to consult a professional. A glazier who is experienced will be able to determine the cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They typically occur when a hard object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be quite risky if they break loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your windows.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops due to extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and eventually expand into full-blown break.

A more serious, but possible crack is a pressure crack. This is a curvy, curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by high or low pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

If you're willing to go a step beyond nail polish and tape there are alternatives to fix cracks in your window repairs near me glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can give your windows more protection and durability. If you prefer to do it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or the wood around it is weak or rotting, it might be the time to fix your windows. Excessive moisture creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can create a range of problems for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

If the water is coming in from the outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to seek out a professional to assist repair the issue immediately. Leaking windows are among the leading causes of structural and mold damage So don't leave them untreated.

In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary clean the area and get rid of any caulking that is in place.

Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they can also become blocked in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

If windows have double panes, you'll also need to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This helps to keep a barrier of gas between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal may wear away over time,, and allow water to get into the home.

Another sign of leaks is the appearance of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. These are caused when the drywall is saturated by moisture, which weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. You might also find peeling paint as a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are referred to in the UK) separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII they went out of fashion. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative element in a few older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to a single support or a small group of them, creating an opening in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting elements.

First, clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Then, take off any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After you've cut the intersections, you can tape off the lower portion of the window repair near me frame using painter's tape. Then, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying special attention to the areas that were lightly coated on the first go. Let the paint completely dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If you're experiencing a more severe problem like cracks that create an hourglass shape in center of the window, then it's probably recommended to replace the sash. In these instances, you'll need to look for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing window in both style and size.

Installing a grid window is a more affordable option. These windows have a full pane of glass with a series of muntins attached to the surface, fitters giving them a divided appearance. These windows are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

Installing a drip cap can prevent water from leaking into the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for about $20. They're a lot easier to install than windowsash replacements and will provide you with the same function as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a sign that you need to call for help. A sash that is broken not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and working.

Often, the issue is caused by worn or improperly installed sash cords. It's simple to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. First, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash. Then, push up on the side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to remove it. It is important to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash from the other to allow access to the location where the sash cords reside.

Once you've removed the sash, it's important to be sure to compare its metal tabs to the ones on the new sash. If they're different, it can be difficult to insert the new sash in its correct slot and could affect how well the sash operates. This can be easily fixed by putting the tabs in their correct places on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine the frame of your windows for problems or decay. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood will shrink and wear down over time. If you notice any obvious damage, fitters it should be fixed as quickly as you can to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created using half mineral spirits and half boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can protect your window from the elements too.